I was told to wait, and the silence in the hallway felt unusually heavy, as if something significant was about to be revealed.
Moments later, Leo was brought into the room. He looked small, uncertain, and overwhelmed by the unfamiliar attention. His clothes still carried traces of the hike—faint dirt stains and scuffed fabric that told the story before he even spoke. I could see he was nervous, expecting punishment or disappointment. Instead, the tallest officer stepped forward. He was an older man with a firm posture, silver hair at his temples, and decorations on his uniform that suggested years of service.
The officer spoke calmly, addressing Leo directly. He mentioned the six-mile hike and what continue reading …
